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Tarpy's Roadhouse

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Sprawling American restaurant with rustic decor, known for its steaks, ribs, and charming, pet-friendly patio.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

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The entrance

Tarpy's Roadhouse

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Sprawling American restaurant with rustic decor, known for its steaks, ribs, and charming, pet-friendly patio.

"Consistently praised for its delicious food and wonderful atmosphere, Tarpy's Roadhouse is a must-visit!"

TIP

Make Reservations

Book ahead, especially during busy periods, to ensure prompt seating and a smooth dining experience.

Dine on the Patio

Consider the garden patio for a pleasant, relaxing meal, which is also dog-friendly.

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Quick Facts

Open·Closes 10PM

Cuisine

American

Price

$$$

Phone

(831) 647-1444

Address

2999 Monterey Salinas Hwy Ste #1, Monterey, CA 93940, USA

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rustic Lodge Ambiance

Rustic Lodge Ambiance

Experience a welcoming, lodge-like atmosphere with stone walls and cozy interiors, perfect for special occasions.

Google Review
Perfectly Cooked Steaks

Perfectly Cooked Steaks

Indulge in tender, juicy steaks cooked to a perfect medium-rare, with a great sear on the outside.

Google Review+2
Pet-Friendly Patio Dining

Pet-Friendly Patio Dining

Enjoy delicious meals and drinks on a beautiful, spacious patio that welcomes your furry friends.

Monterey Dog-Friendly Restaurants5 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Monterey Where Fido is Welcome6 Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Monterey
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Make Reservations

Book ahead, especially during busy periods, to ensure prompt seating and a smooth dining experience.

Dine on the Patio

Consider the garden patio for a pleasant, relaxing meal, which is also dog-friendly.

Explore Unique Dishes

Don't miss signature items like bourbon molasses pork chops, lamb tenderloin, or prime steaks.

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Tips

from all over the internet

Make Reservations

Book ahead, especially during busy periods, to ensure prompt seating and a smooth dining experience.

Dine on the Patio

Consider the garden patio for a pleasant, relaxing meal, which is also dog-friendly.

Explore Unique Dishes

Don't miss signature items like bourbon molasses pork chops, lamb tenderloin, or prime steaks.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Tarpy's Roadhouse offers a charming, lodge-like ambiance with a dog-friendly patio and a menu featuring hearty American classics. Diners praise the tender steaks, flavorful ribs, and appetizers like the giant pretzel. However, some reviews mention slow service and occasional inconsistencies in food preparation, particularly regarding overcooked meats.

"Foods were excellent, love the environment around the place, staffs were generous.

I and my friends visited last April for our vacation, it was the good start of the day. Soup was umami, ribs was very tender but I think it somewhat soaked with the sauce, maybe reduced a bit was perfect, steak was that I ordered and it was perfect medium-rare, although I love how you cooked the little cabbage so much, salmon steak from my friend - so so good. Overall it was one of the great meal here."

Nat Ketumarn

"We recently had a family dinner at Tarpy’s Roadhouse, and I can confidently say it was one of the best dining experiences we’ve had in a long time. From the warm, rustic ambiance to the phenomenal food and excellent service, everything about the evening was memorable.

Tarpy’s has this welcoming, lodge-like feel that sets the tone as soon as you walk in. The stone walls, dim lighting, and cozy interior make it feel like a hidden gem tucked away in Monterey. It’s upscale without being stuffy—perfect for both date nights and relaxed family dinners like ours.

We were seated promptly despite it being a busy evening, and our server greeted us with a big smile and genuine enthusiasm. She made us feel right at home from the start, and her knowledge of the menu made ordering a breeze.

Now, let’s talk about the food—because wow. I ordered the steak and shrimp, and it was absolutely divine. The steak was cooked to a perfect medium rare—tender, juicy, and full of flavor with just the right sear on the outside. The shrimp were plump, buttery, and seasoned just right, adding a delightful surf-and-turf balance to the plate. The sides complemented the dish beautifully, and the presentation alone had me excited before I even took a bite.

My son went with the Kobe burger, and I have to admit, I was a little jealous when it arrived. You could tell just by looking at it that it was going to be good—but once he took a bite, his reaction said it all. The burger was thick, juicy, and packed with flavor. The bun was soft but sturdy enough to hold it all together, and the toppings were fresh and thoughtfully chosen. I managed to steal a bite, and I totally understand why he barely looked up from his plate the entire time.

We also took full advantage of the drink menu, which was impressive. I went with their take on an Old Fashioned, and it was perfect—strong, smooth, and not overly sweet. My partner ordered a floral gin cocktail that was light and refreshing, and even the non-alcoholic drinks for the kids were crafted with care. It’s rare to find a place where the bar service is just as good as the food, but Tarpy’s delivered on both fronts.

The real cherry on top, though, was the service. Our server was attentive without being overbearing, gave great recommendations, and kept everything running smoothly. She made us feel like we were her only table even though the restaurant was busy. The rest of the staff—from the host to the busser—was equally professional and friendly, which speaks volumes about the culture at Tarpy’s.

We finished off the night with a shared dessert—their famous bread pudding with whiskey caramel sauce. It was rich, warm, and comforting, the perfect way to end an already fantastic meal.

If you’re anywhere near Monterey and looking for a place to enjoy high-quality food in a beautiful setting, Tarpy’s Roadhouse should be at the top of your list. The steak and shrimp was flawless, the Kobe burger was a hit with our son, the drinks were spot-on, and the service tied it all together. We’ll absolutely be back."

Tony Webb

"One of the best restaurants in Monterey/Del Rey Oaks. Great service, very friendly staff, and food is always delicious. Price is on the high side but totally worth it. You don’t want to miss their giant pretzel with cheese. The steak selection is great and cooked to perfection. Desserts are good too. I’ll recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting Monterey for a special occasion. A+"

Armando “El Siberiano” Vidal Arata

What People Like

Inviting lodge-like atmosphere
Tender steaks and flavorful ribs
Pet-friendly patio dining

What People Dislike

Inconsistent food preparation (e.g., overcooked)
Slow or inattentive service at times

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Tarpy's Roadhouse has a dog-friendly patio area where your furry friends are welcome. Some proceeds from the pet menu go to local animal nonprofits.

Monterey Dog-Friendly Restaurants5 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Monterey Where Fido is Welcome6 Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Monterey

It is highly recommended to make reservations, especially during peak hours or busy periods, to ensure you get a table.

Best 20 Happy Hours in Monterey County, plus 13 honorable mentions. | Eat + DrinkGoogle Review

Many guests rave about the tender steaks, the giant Bavarian pretzel, and the spare ribs. Unique items like bourbon molasses pork chops are also recommended.

The Best Restaurants In Monterey's Old Town, CaliforniaDining - MontereyGoogle Review

The restaurant features a welcoming, lodge-like atmosphere with rustic stone walls and a cozy interior, making it ideal for special occasions.

Google Review

Yes, the restaurant notes that they offer vegetarian and gluten-free options on their menu. It's always best to confirm with your server.

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